A SERIAL shoplifter has been spared a prison sentence after admitting her latest offences.

Lauren Shepherd, 31, stole food from the Co-op in Chichester earlier this year.

Previously she was convicted for thefts including stealing a Christmas tree from Homesense, hair products from Superdrug, gift sets from Boots, and toiletries from Stephens Pharmacy in the city.

Shepherd appeared before Worthing Magistrates’ Court and admitted breaching previous community orders meant to curb her criminal behaviour.

Magistrate Eric Trevett imposed an eight-week suspended prison sentence.

Shepherd, of East Walls, Chichester, was ordered to complete treatment for drug dependency for six months and attend ten rehabilitation sessions.